Insecurity: Army set to recruit 28,000 new soldiers

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigerian Army on Friday disclosed that it has put machinery in place for the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers following the establishment of a new training depot in Amasiri-Edda, Afikpo and Edda Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State.

Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, while disclosing this, said, “The Army is expanding recruitment capacity and strengthening manpower to address growing security challenges nationwide”.

Speaking at a media briefing to kickstart the 2026 Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), the COAS, who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Bamidele Alabi, said this year’s celebration reflects the Army’s evolving role in safeguarding the nation and serving the people.

As part of ongoing reforms, he said the Army has established additional Brigades and Units, inducted modern combat equipment, strengthened strategic partnerships, improved infrastructure nationwide, and prioritised troop welfare under its “Soldier First” policy.